This is a classic example of “Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it,” cuz these fatty lil’ suckers sure go great with a cold one!

But if you’re looking for something a little more refined, then my favorite Little Rock dinner was at Cajun’s Wharf. It makes the perfect one-stop fun-filled evening for you to wine, dine and be entertained. (And they even offer complimentary van service from the hotels– talk about brilliant!)

Start with cocktails at either the 10,000-square foot bar or the huge outdoor deck area where you can watch the glorious sunset over the Arkansas River, while nibbling on the fried crawfish tails dunked into their hot-n-spicy dipping sauce. You can really spice things up by ordering one of their zesty Bloody Mary’s or ask for a wine recommendation from their extensive list. (Cajun’s received the prestigious Wine Spectators Award of Excellence for the last six years, and the Wine Enthusiast Award of Distinction.)

Not only is a wealth of fabulous seafood selections offered, but Cajun’s is also famous for their aged Angus beef, so perhaps you and your date should coordinate a “surf & turf ” sharing. When my highly touted Horseradish, Crumb-Encrusted Grouper arrived, it looked rather plain-Jane, like a Chicken-Fried Steak; however, after one bite I was hooked, N.P.I. ( No pun intended).

The simplicity of fresh flavors and contrasting textures worked perfectly. My friend’s decadent Boston Casserole, stuffed with shrimp, crab, lobster bubbling in a Newburg Sauce, was too rich for my blood but she scarfed down every bite!

I had no room for the Cajun Mile High Pie topped with Yarnell’s, the local ice-cream, after my luscious White Chocolate Whiskey-Caramel sauced bread pudding, which had been my original plan… so will have to save that for next time.

Thoughtfully, Cajun’s by the Wharf offers a music scene spicy enough to match its cuisine, so you don’t even have to move from you bar stool. Dedicated to showcasing the local sounds of pop-rock, the monthly calendar lists a variety of sounds. I heard that the often appearing MEMPHIS SOUL REVUE really rocks!